How Much Do Actors Earn Per Movie or Show
The earnings of actors can vary widely based on several factors including their experience, the budget of the project, the medium (film, television, theater), and their level of fame. In this article, we will delve into the earning brackets for actors in different categories, ranging from A-List stars to newcomers. We will also explain the nuances in earnings for regular and starring roles in television and film.
The Earnings Breakdown
Actors' earnings can be quite diverse, depending on their status and the project they are in. Let's break down the categories:
A-List Actors
Per Film: Generally earn between $10 million to $20 million or more. High-Profile TV Shows: Can earn $1 million to $2 million per episode.B-List Actors
Per Film: Often make between $2 million to $10 million per film. TV Shows: Might earn around $100,000 to $500,000 per episode.C-List and Supporting Actors
Per Film: May earn $500,000 to $2 million per film. TV Shows: Earnings can range from $15,000 to $100,000 per episode.Newcomers and Lesser-Known Actors
Per Film: May earn anywhere from $20,000 to $500,000 for a film. TV Shows: Might make about $1,000 to $15,000 per episode.These figures can fluctuate based on negotiations, the actor's role, and the project's overall success. Additionally, actors may receive bonuses or a percentage of the profits, which can significantly increase their earnings.
Day Players and Regular Cast Members
Earnings for actors can also vary dramatically depending on their role and the stage of the project. A day player, who is typically needed for a short period, might earn as little as $1,000 gross per day for an 8-hour shooting day. A regular cast member, such as a police captain or a next-door neighbor, might earn about $2,000 to $10,000 per week.
A star or co-star in a new TV series might earn $20,000 to $25,000 per episode. After a few years, earnings can increase significantly. For example, the stars of the TV series Friends were earning $1 million per episode in their final years, which translates to $20 to $22 million per year. They also received 1.75% of all income from the show.
Big Motion Picture Stars
Big motion picture stars can earn anywhere from $15 million to $30 million per film, in addition to additional profit or gross points. These actors might receive as little as 0.1% or up to 2% of the profits. In contrast, a day player with only one or two lines might earn around $1,000 to $2,000 for a one-day shoot.
Unknown Actors in Small Movies
Unknown actors who "star" in small movies might earn around $200,000 for the entire shoot. This figure can vary significantly depending on the role and the project's success.
Residuals and Syndication
Actors also receive residuals based on the major syndication of their work. A day player might receive another $1,000 when their movie premieres on HBO, and another $1,000 when it moves to Showtime. After one year, the residuals drop to $900, and after 10 years, they drop to $100. Syndication terms can range from 30 days to 5 years, depending on the size of the syndicator and the negotiation between the distributor and the actor.
These residual payments provide a secondary source of income, helping actors manage their careers more sustainably. Understanding these earning structures is crucial for both actors and the entertainment industry to navigate the complexities of the film and television business.